By Draxon Maloya
The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has announced amendments to the Laws of the Game, effective immediately and applicable from the second round of the Super League season.
These changes aim to promote fairness, enhance gameplay, and align with FIFA standards.
The new rules states that goalkeepers must release the ball within 8 seconds of gaining possession, or the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick.
To bring sanity on the field only team captains can dispute or discuss decisions with referees; non-captains may receive a yellow card for attempting to influence decisions.
The accidental double-touches during Penalty kicks will result in a retake, while deliberate double-touches will award the defending team an indirect free kick.
The new rules further stipulate that no disciplinary action will be taken when a team official or substitute touches the ball as it leaves the field without intent to interfere unfairly.
Meanwhile, FAM expects all stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the amended laws and enforce them strictly to ensure smooth and fair gameplay as it monitors implementation and address any concerns or queries.
